Lapsley Orchard

At the early age of 12, John A. Wolchesky began his farming journey with a summer job at Seely-Brown Orchard in Pomfret, Connecticut, where he learned the mechanics and honor of farming. In 1984, at the age of 25, John took over the operation of Lapsley Orchard, which initially focused on apples and a few pear trees. Over the years, John diversified the farm to include a wide range of fruits and vegetables, a cider mill, and more. The farm transitioned from wholesaling to focusing on retail, building a strong local brand. The land itself has a rich history, dating back to 1750 when Isreal Putnam specialized in stock raising and fruit growing.

The Wolchesky family operates the 200-acre farm with a commitment to producing high-quality produce. The farm grows a diverse array of fruits and vegetables, all sold at their retail stand and local restaurants. The family takes great pride in their work, ensuring that everything they grow is fresh, local, and healthy. The farm also offers pick-your-own (PYO) activities for blueberries, apples, and pumpkins, and hosts horse-drawn wagon rides in the fall.

Lapsley Orchard is open daily from mid-July through December 24th, offering a variety of seasonal produce and activities. The farm stand also features products from neighboring farms, including maple syrup, honey, maple candy, jams, jellies, and meats. The farm is a pioneer in farm production and marketing, serving as a grand example of a New England farm at its best.